The Rama Within

 Have you ever wondered why Lord Rama is considered as an epitome of the ideal? Was it because he was picture perfect, without human follies? Or was it because he consciously chose to do what was right, his own conditioning notwithstanding? I would say it’s the latter, and here’s why:

The story of Rama’s life is a testament to the fact that every living being is put on earth with a purpose; be that a squirrel, monkeys, eagle or two half brothers who were devoted to Rama’s mission in their own ways; Rama’s victory over Ravana would not have been possible without any of them. Humanity is diverse; and it is so with a purpose. Neurotypes like autism, ADHD and more are a normal part of human diversity - a diversity that has helped humanity evolve. Think Srinivasa Ramanujam, Einstein, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates- all autistic people who have contributed significantly to life as we know it today!

Did Rama ever understand the nature of Kaikeyi’s relationship with Dasharatha and why was she so important to him? Probably not! But that did not stop Rama from embracing Bharat as his own. You may never know why a person is autistic, you may never completely understand why we autistics ‘behave’ the way we do- not look into your eyes, not talk to you, flap our hands, spin and giggle for no obvious reason. But Rama’s life teaches us to embrace everybody for what they are, ‘behaviours’ notwithstanding!

When we do not know the complete truth about something, our obvious response is to judge. Sabari gave Rama berries that she had bitten off first, to ensure they were sweet. Rama did not judge her for doing it. Rather, he embraced the love she showed for him. To judge or to embrace is a choice and the life of Rama teaches us to embrace without judgement, even if someone is ‘different’.      

What is the most powerful tool that one can possess? It is  having a voice. Rama could have walked away and not helped Sugriva fight Vali, for hey, it was none of his business! Yet, he chose to stand up for someone who was misunderstood and was not given an opportunity to be heard. When you have a voice, use it to stand up for someone who does not possess one. Many of us autistics do not possess a ‘voice’, in a way that it is commonly understood. But you can use your voice to raise awareness and make this world a little more equal place.

This Ramanavami, let us all make a conscious attempt to find the Rama who exists in all of us. Let us make an attempt to embrace diversity from a space that is not crowded with judgement, let us acknowledge the role that every human being plays in the society and let’s use our voice to create a world that is equal in its truest sense.